Cape Bonavista Lighthouse
Cape Bonavista Lighthouse: A Beacon of History
Elliston Puffin Viewing Site: A Seabird Spectacle
Witness thousands of Atlantic puffins up close in their natural habitat at this accessible Newfoundland viewing site.
The Puffin Viewing Site in Elliston, Newfoundland, offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe Atlantic puffins in their natural habitat. From late May to September, thousands of these charming seabirds gather on the cliffs, providing visitors with an up-close and unforgettable wildlife experience.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Puffin Viewing Site
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Maberly Rd, Elliston, Newfoundland and Labrador, A0C 1W0, CA
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Puffin Viewing Site
Getting There
Walking
From the main road in Elliston, the Puffin Viewing Site is a short, five-minute walk. Follow the well-worn path from the designated parking area to the cliff edge. The path is generally easy to navigate but can be uneven in places, so watch your step.
Driving
From Bonavista, take Route 230 to Route 238 East towards Elliston. Follow Route 238 to Maberly Road, where you'll find the Puffin Viewing Site. Parking is available in a designated lot near the site. Be aware that Route 238 may have potholes. Parking is free.
Local tips
✓
Visit during the peak breeding season (late May to early September) for the highest concentration of puffins.
✓
Bring binoculars for a closer view of the puffins and other seabirds.
✓
Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain around the viewing site can be uneven.
✓
Be mindful of the cliff edges and avoid getting too close to avoid disturbing the birds.
✓
Consider donating to support the maintenance and preservation of the viewing site.
Discover more about Puffin Viewing Site
Perched on the rugged coastline of the Bonavista Peninsula, the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site provides one of the most accessible land-based locations in North America to witness the captivating lives of Atlantic puffins. Known as the 'clowns of the sea' due to their colorful beaks and playful antics, these birds create a vibrant spectacle during their breeding season.From late May to September, thousands of puffins flock to Elliston to nest and raise their young. The viewing site, a short five-minute walk from the main road, allows visitors to stand mere meters away from the puffins as they flutter between the cliffs and the ocean. This close proximity offers incredible opportunities for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.Beyond the puffins, the area teems with other seabird species, including Black Guillemots, Common Murres, Northern Gannets, and Kittiwakes, enriching the experience for birdwatchers. The site is free to visit, though donations are encouraged to help with upkeep. While visiting, be sure to explore Elliston, also known as the 'Root Cellar Capital of the World', and discover the unique cultural heritage of this charming Newfoundland town.
A brief summary to Puffin Viewing Site
Use Puffin Viewing Site as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Avalon Peninsula
Discover the Avalon Peninsula in Canada: A blend of vibrant city life, historic sites, and stunning natural landscapes. Perfect for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.
Tell me more about Avalon Peninsula
